The director of Oleksandr Usyk’s team, Serhii Lapin, has explained why the undisputed heavyweight champion has requested an extension to negotiations for a possible fight with Joseph Parker.

Team Usyk have also insisted that the icon, The Ring’s pound-for-pound No. 1 and clearly the best heavyweight of his generation, has "earned the right" to choose his next steps.

Following his explosive five-round victory over Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, which anointed him undisputed for the second time, the WBO ordered Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) to face their interim champion and mandatory challenger.

As per their rules, the order started a 30-day period for negotiations regarding a fight before a purse bid would be required to determine where, and under what banner, the encounter would take place.

However, with the deadline approaching, Team Usyk requested an extension on that period citing an injury.

Now Lapin has explained the request via a statement on the Ready To Fight website: “Throughout his entire professional career, both Oleksandr Usyk and our whole team have proven that we respect all potential opponents as well as the rules that govern professional boxing.

“Over the past year and a half, Usyk has accomplished a historic achievement by becoming the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion twice. That demanded tremendous physical and mental effort, and great sacrifice.

“The champion has earned the chance to let his body recover from the effects of a punishing training regime and from injuries that are often invisible to the outside world.

“And, ultimately, simply to rest and spend time with his family. Most importantly: he has earned the right to choose his own future — and to take the time he needs to make that decision.”

He finished by repeating Usyk’s warning to Dubois during their London fight week: “So, guys, don’t push the horses.”